University sports are practically their own culture, with everyone knowing at least one person who swears by the team life. From regular practices to wild socials and the thrill of competition, being part of a sports team seems like the ultimate university experience. But is it worth it, or is it overrated?
One undeniable perk of university sports is the friendships you forge. There’s something special about bonding over shared passions. Whether it’s those intense matches, training sessions, or Wednesday night socials when you’re dressing up as carrots or babies, you build connections with people who understand and share your love of the sport. These friendships can turn into lifelong bonds, providing a strong support system throughout your university years and beyond.
With regular practices, games, and sometimes mandatory gym sessions, being on a team can feel like a part-time job.
But then, there’s the cost. Between buying kit, paying for training, and sometimes even covering extra costs for socials, the price of being on a team can be steep. For anyone trying to make their student loan stretch, it’s not ideal. There’s also the sheer time commitment. With regular practices, games, and sometimes mandatory gym sessions, being on a team can feel like a part-time job. And while it’s great if you’re super dedicated, it can also be exhausting to balance sports with everything else. Don’t even get me started on those mornings after socials—9 a.m. lectures become a whole new level of painful.
Apart from that, there’s the competitive nature of university sports, which brings another layer of pressure. This environment might feel natural for those who’ve been involved in sports at a high level before uni. However, for others, the intensity can be overwhelming, and they may find themselves wondering if they have the skill to keep up. Playing for a uni team isn’t just about showing up and having fun—it’s a commitment that requires dedication and serious effort. This raises the question: is talent alone enough to succeed in university sports?
So, is it overrated or underrated? Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re all about the challenge and the friendships and can handle the cost and time, uni sports can be one of the most rewarding parts of your experience. But if you’re looking for something more casual, be prepared—it’s a bigger commitment than you might think. At the end of the day, it’s the laughs, the late nights, and the chaotic socials that, for some, make it all worth it. For those who survive the 9 a.m. classes after a Wednesday night, it’s priceless (even if your wallet says otherwise).
